Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions can be overwhelming for beginners, but with the right foundation, anyone can start solving challenges and building real-world skills. In this session, we’ll break down the CTF essentials: what CTFs are, major challenge categories, and the general skills that help competitors succeed. Attendees will explore cryptography, steganography, OSINT, and reverse engineering, complete with hands-on mini-challenges to get a taste of each type. We’ll also cover practical tips for preparation, key tools, and resources to keep the learning going. Whether you're curious about cybersecurity or gearing up for your first CTF, this talk will set you on the path to success.